Get to Know an Agent in Attendance: Alex Barba of The Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency

Alex joined The Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency in 2018, where she is building her list, seeking submissions in young adult and middle grade.

Previously with Inklings Literary Agency, she has degrees in political science and public policy, and worked as a literary scout in New York and in story development in Los Angeles. A traveler at heart, she’s lived in Spain and studied in Southeast Asia and Germany, but her favorite journeys always seem to be into the pages of a good book.

What she is looking for:

“I am primarily looking for contemporary, but will also welcome light fantasy or sci-fi. A clever retelling or reimagining of an old classic – fairy tales, myths – is always thrilling, particularly with a magical, mystical storybook feel that is nonetheless tangible enough to imagine in today’s world (favorite book of all time: Ella Enchanted). I love escapist fantasy grounded in accessible characters. I’m craving feminist tales and diverse voices, particularly of the speak-truth-to-power persuasion/#resistance from young women characters.

“Young Adult: Contemporary and fantasy YA with a strong, unique voice is my first love. I enjoy compelling romance with an interesting hook, and anything set in a beach town (gotta love those summer reads). I love issue-driven stories, slightly dark/subversive story lines for upper YA, and friendships that go the distance. I love a gothic tone or a light fantasy. I’m also open to commercial fiction with YA crossover appeal – those bold, coming-of-age stories for both the adult and young adult audiences.

“Middle Grade: Positive stories with nerdy girl or boy characters, stories about that awkward tween phase, and historical fiction (I want the next American Girl series so badly). Mischievous MG characters are my fave.”